Code of Conduct for Library Users

The University Library is responsible for providing patrons with a pleasant and productive environment for study and research, as well as to protect the library materials and facilities. The following policies apply to Library users in all public service areas:

Food and DrinkFor the protection of the building, furniture, equipment, and the collections, the library prohibits the consumption of ANY type of food. Any food brought into the building by library patrons, must remain inside book bags, backpacks, or briefcases, etc... Beverages are permitted in “Spill-Proof” containers with twist off or other secure lids. Damage caused by food and drink is defined as vandalism and is in violation of California Penal Code Section 594. If you spill your drink, please report it to a public service desk immediately!

Animals in the LibraryBringing animals into the library building is not permitted, except for an individual accompanied by his/her service animal or by someone who has received permission from the University.

Flyers/Magazines/Newspapers, i.e., Poly Post, Latino University, Young Money, etc. Per the order of the State Fire Marshall, the Library Lobby is considered a required egress which prohibits us from having any type of newspapers, combustible material that adds fuel to the fire (in the event of a fire) / hazard that will prevent any individual from exiting.

Disorderly BehaviorPlease DO NOT engage in disorderly behavior of any kind, including verbal abuse, threats of violence, sexual harassment, or the activities that interfere with the activities of library staff and patrons. Behaving in a way that interferes with an employee’s performance of his/her duties, including, but not limited to, verbal abuse, intimidation, sexual harassment or harassment on account of race, religion, ethnic background, gender, or sexual orientation, violates the California Penal Code Sections 415 and 415.5

Noise (Designated "Quiet Floors" are 1st, 5th, and 6th Floors)Excessive noise includes: loud conversations, snoring, moving any and or all types of furniture, and using audio devices (cellular phones, radios, CD/MP3 players, etc.) in such a manner as to disturb others. This type of behavior is in violation of California Penal Code Sections 415 and 415.5

Cell Phone Use

In order to maintain a respectful study environment, the Library asks that all cell phone users set their phones to vibrate while they are in the building.

If you must talk on your cell phone, do so only near campus phones, near elevators, in stairwells, and in restrooms, so you do not bother other people.

Smoking/Alcoholic Beverages/Illegal DrugsSmoking products of any sort (including e-cigarettes), drinking alcoholic beverages and using illegal drugs are prohibited. Student violators will be subject to CSU (California State University) student disciplinary procedures established pursuant to Title 5, Section 41301, of the California Code of Regulations.

Prevention of theftTo prevent theft of library materials, Library users may be asked to present book bags, backpacks, or briefcases, etc. for inspection. By entering the library, users are agreeing to pass through a security system. Library users will be asked to present book bags, backpacks, or briefcases, etc. for inspection if the detection alarm is deactivated, or when there is a power failure. To prevent theft of books, and library materials, state law authorizes the detention, for a reasonable period, of any person using the facilities who is suspected of committing “library theft”. (California Penal Code Section 490.5)

Personal BelongingsBooks, laptops, book bags, backpacks, briefcases, or other personal belongings, left unattended on tables or study carrels are at risk of being stolen. If you leave the library, you must take ALL belongings with you. Library staff retains the right to place unattended belongings in the Library “Lost and Found”, located at the Circulation Desk.The Library is NOT RESPONSIBLE for personal belongings. DO NOT leave your belongings unattended at any time.

SolicitationCommercial solicitation is prohibited in library facilities without prior written authorization. “Commercial Solicitation” includes all activities intended to result in a sale. (California Administrative Code Section 42350.6 of Article 9, Subchapter 4, chapter 1 of Title 5)

Loitering/Refusing to LeaveNo loitering. Loitering is defined as "wandering ... from place to place without apparent reason or business and refusing to identify oneself and to account for one's presence when requested by any peace officer to do so, if the surrounding circumstances are such as to indicate to a reasonable person that the public safety demands such identification." (California Penal Code Section 647(e)) Also, being in unauthorized areas of the library, remaining in the library after closing, refusing or failing to leave when requested to leave during closing procedures or emergency situations or drills, or not abiding by the Cal Poly Pomona Library Conduct Policy.

The following are prohibited conduct:

Parking wheeled vehicles in unauthorized parking areas near the library entrance, or bringing them in to the library building. (California Civil Code Section 600.05)

It is expected that library staff requests for compliance with these rules will be immediately and civilly honored. Depending upon the seriousness of the infraction, refusal to comply with library rules may result in:

A request to leave the building.

A police investigation of possible violations of State Education, Civil, or Penal Codes.